Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched a sharp critique against opposition parties during a public address in Dhule on Tuesday. He accused them of hypocrisy in their reaction to candidates winning corporation elections unopposed in certain wards.
Opposition's 'Selective Outrage' on Democracy
Addressing a gathering ahead of the upcoming civic polls, Fadnavis pointed out a stark contradiction in the opposition's stance. He highlighted that 35 Members of Parliament have been elected unopposed in the country's history, with a significant majority—33—being elected during periods when the Congress party was in power. "Democracy was thriving then," he remarked sarcastically.
Fadnavis contrasted this with the current scenario where, when corporators from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) win without contest, it is labeled a 'murder of democracy' by rival parties. "This clearly shows how the opposition parties' brains work when anything goes BJP's way," the Chief Minister stated, alleging a biased and opportunistic approach.
Gateway City's Development Push
Shifting focus to local development, Fadnavis emphasized Dhule's strategic importance as the gateway of Maharashtra, sharing borders with Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. He asserted the state government's commitment to the city's progress, reminding the audience of their support in the 2017 elections.
He listed several key initiatives undertaken since then:
- The implementation of the Rs 170-crore Akkalpada water supply scheme to ensure frequent water supply for town residents.
- Other ongoing drinking water projects aimed at providing daily water access.
- Allocation of Rs 13 crore under the PM e-Bus Sewa scheme for the town's transport infrastructure.
Fadnavis claimed that towns like Dhule had been neglected for decades but were now receiving focused attention under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. He mentioned that cleanliness projects, waste management systems, and water treatment plants are being established to improve the local environment.
Future Prospects and Infrastructure Boost
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister announced plans to enhance Dhule's connectivity and economic potential. A significant infrastructure upgrade involves extending the length of the Dhule airport runway. This expansion is intended to facilitate improved air services, thereby boosting business and trade opportunities for the region.
"Dhule is a historic town, but we should not confine ourselves to that. We have to develop," Fadnavis urged. He framed the upcoming civic polls not merely as a contest for the mayor's post but as a referendum on enabling real development that improves the quality of life for the people of Dhule.
In his concluding remarks, he sought public support and blessings for the BJP's vision, positioning the party as the catalyst for transformative growth in the region.
